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A BUSINESSWOMAN has faced her worst fears and completed a gruelling trek across the Grand Canyon.

Paula Orton, the owner of Bodyworks beauty clinic, at Havant, set herself the challenge of overcoming her fear of heights in the most adventurous way possible.

The 37-year-old took part in a trek for Naomi House and Jacksplace children’s hospices – so it meant there was no way she could back out.

The training itself was tough but she also had to raise more than £4,000 to take part.

Paula was overjoyed to reach more than £4,500.

She said: ‘The Grand Canyon challenge was amazing and I’m so glad I managed to complete it.

‘It’s no secret I’m afraid of heights and one part of the trip included climbing down a 200ft rock face opposite Mooney Falls, a breathtaking natural waterfall.

‘I’ll confess there were tears and anxiety, but with the help of the rest of my group – and sheer determination – I made it down-and back up in one piece.

‘Camping next to a creek under the stars was surreal and something I’ll never forget, a real highlight.

‘My fundraising page will stay open until the end of November and so far the amount raised is about £4,500. It’s important to me that I raise awareness of the free services Naomi House and Jacksplace offer, as well as money to help run the services.’

Paula arranged lots of fundraising activities in the build-up to the trek.

She enlisted the help of Havant MP Alan Mak with a raffle which raised more than £300 for the charity.

He said: ‘Congratulations to Paula on her fantastic fundraising effort.

‘Both the hospices provide an essential and compassionate service to Hampshire children and families, so it is a very worthy cause to get behind.

‘I know Paula has been training very hard. I saw her before she left and I’m delighted she’s returned after such a successful trek.’